- Illinois lawmakers have introduced legislation to ban credit card use for all forms of gambling, including lottery tickets, casino games, and online betting.
- The bill would close loopholes by prohibiting casino ATMs from dispensing cash advances on credit cards.
- Illinois joins several other states implementing credit card restrictions to reduce gambling-related debt and compulsive behavior.
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Illinois lawmakers are pushing to ban credit card use across all forms of gambling in the state, introducing legislation that would close loopholes allowing bettors to wager with borrowed money.
Democratic Representatives Curtis Tarver and Marti Deuter filed House Bill 4149, which would prohibit credit cards for purchasing lottery tickets, funding casino wagers, and placing bets at any gambling establishment.
Additionally, the bill would prohibit casino ATMs from giving out cash advances on credit cards, which is a popular workaround that essentially permits credit-based gambling. Supporters contend that the idea seeks to encourage accountability and transparency and that using credit to obtain gaming revenues adds needless financial risk.
As Illinois joins an increasing number of states reevaluating credit card access for gambling, the proposal has been referred to the House Rules Committee. Legal blackjack games at physical casinos would be subject to the proposed regulations, which would also apply to internet platforms.
Key Timeline of Illinois Credit Card Gambling Restrictions:
The state already prohibits credit cards for casino and video gaming wagers under IGB regulations. The new rule for online sports betting took effect in early November, with operators required to comply by Nov. 10.
If HB 4149 is approved, Illinois blackjack and other online gaming platforms would be subject to additional regulations, establishing consistent guidelines for all kinds of gambling.
Illinois would join Tennessee, Massachusetts, Iowa, and other states that have banned gambling with credit cards, responding to research showing such restrictions reduce compulsive gambling and financial harm.